A Nigerian national and professional footballer, Jones Michael, has been arrested in India for alleged possession of illegal drugs and immigration-related offences.
According to The Times of India, the 32-year-old was apprehended by operatives of the Prohibition Enforcement Wing near the Vijayamangalam toll gate in Erode, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday.
The operation, which was based on a tip-off, was led by Inspector Sivahami Rani.
Authorities said Michael was found in possession of methamphetamine valued at ₹15 lakh, approximately ₦27.9 million. Further investigations revealed that he had overstayed in the country without valid immigration documents.
“His passport had expired in 2023, and it is likely that he illegally entered the country by sea,” Inspector Rani disclosed.
The suspect has since been charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as well as the Foreigners Act.
He is currently being held at the Coimbatore Central Prison pending further investigations.
In connection with the case, police also arrested a 49-year-old Indian national, identified simply as Melvin, from Perundurai, for allegedly providing accommodation to the Nigerian without verifying his immigration status.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to determine the full extent of Michael’s network and how he came into possession of the banned substance.
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